Zinc bromide (ZnBr₂) is an inorganic compound consisting of zinc and bromine. It appears as a white to off-white crystalline solid and is highly soluble in water. Due to its physicochemical characteristics, zinc bromide is widely used in chemical processing, oil and gas operations, electrochemical systems, and research laboratories.

Physicochemical Properties of Zinc Bromide

Physical Properties

• Chemical formula: ZnBr₂
• Molar mass: 225.19 g/mol
• Appearance: White crystalline powder
• Density: Approximately 4.2 g/cm³
• Melting point: Around 394 °C
• Boiling point: Approximately 697 °C (with partial decomposition)
• Hygroscopic nature: Absorbs moisture readily from the atmosphere

Zinc bromide has a crystal structure similar to zinc iodide, where zinc ions are tetrahedrally coordinated by bromide ions.

Chemical Properties

Zinc bromide acts as a Lewis acid due to the presence of Zn²⁺ ions. It readily forms complexes with water molecules and other ligands. The compound is stable under normal conditions but reacts with strong bases to form zinc hydroxide precipitates.

Aqueous Solutions of Zinc Bromide

Zinc bromide is extremely soluble in water, forming clear, dense aqueous solutions.

Solution Characteristics

• Solubility: Very high at room temperature
• pH range: Slightly acidic (typically between 4 and 6)
• Electrical conductivity: High, due to complete dissociation into Zn²⁺ and Br⁻ ions
• Density control: Can be precisely adjusted by concentration

These properties make zinc bromide solutions particularly suitable for applications requiring high-density fluids and stable ionic behavior.

Applications

• Oil and Gas Industry: Used as high-density brine fluids for drilling, completion, and workover operations.
• Chemical Industry: Acts as a catalyst and reagent in organic and inorganic synthesis.
• Electrochemical Systems: Utilized in zinc–bromide flow batteries and other energy-storage technologies.
• Radiation Shielding: Dense solutions are effective in absorbing X-rays and gamma radiation.

Safety and Handling

Zinc bromide and its aqueous solutions are corrosive. Proper handling includes the use of gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. Storage should be in corrosion-resistant containers, away from moisture and incompatible materials.

SNDB

SNDB Chemicals is recognized as one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of zinc bromide products.

Key Strengths of SNDB

• Produces high-purity zinc bromide in both solid and solution forms
• Employs advanced manufacturing and quality-control systems
• Supplies zinc bromide for industrial, oilfield, and research applications
• Offers customized concentrations and packaging options
• Maintains compliance with international quality and safety standards
• Strong presence in domestic and global export markets

SNDB’s consistent quality, technical expertise, and customer-focused approach have positioned it as a trusted supplier in the zinc bromide industry.